Mike Corthell

Editor & Publisher at Fryeburg Free Press MEDIA

Monday, January 3, 2011

Look to God, not gov't

''I know it isn't easy. I know it takes effort and sacrifice. Liberty is all about effort and sacrifice, but it beats tyranny, hands down. Taking responsibility for ourselves and our families, and not expecting the government to do so, is the basis of our nation. Yet I fear we are collectively exhibiting amnesia when it comes to our roots.''

This is the time of the year when everyone makes promises that will be broken by the end of January. Stop smoking, eat less, work out and all the other good, yet meaningless, intentions will fall by the wayside.People want quick and easy solutions for difficult problems.We even hear these promises from the White House. Our first lady is proffering a solution for childhood obesity. All we need is the government to mandate fresh fruits and vegetables in place of Cheetos and Pepsi, and the pounds will just fall off overnight.Of course, Michelle will not suggest that parents get involved and tell their children to put down the video game, shut off the TV, go outside and play or put on ice skates and spend the afternoon with friends skating and eating fat-free soft pretzels, like I did as a kid.No, that would require parents shutting off their iPhone or Blackberry, actually talking to their children, ignoring the "connected world" and connecting with their kids. We have become so distracted with being in touch with all that is going on around us that many parents prefer to keep their kids entertained with electronics rather than encourage healthy behavior.If Michelle and Barack really want to curtail childhood obesity, how about locking up all the child molesters who stalk our public parks and playgrounds looking for their next victim? Many parents are terrified to allow their children to ride their bikes or play outside for fear they will be abducted and found days later in a dumpster. Read more: New Year's resolution? Look to God, not gov'thttp://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=246797#ixzz19xozPGU7